Yvonne Donkor is the president of Tour Operators Union of Ghana
The Tour Operators Union of Ghana (TOUGHA) has set its sights on transforming Ghana’s tourism sector after wrapping up a four-day “Bono Expedition” on August 28, 2025, that uncovered a wealth of untapped ecotourism treasures in the Bono and Bono East Regions.
Leading the expedition, TOUGHA President Yvonne Donkor said the tour was more than a familiarization trip; it was a bold step toward diversifying Ghana’s tourism offerings and ensuring communities directly benefit from tourism growth.
“We wanted our members to see these breathtaking attractions for themselves so they can confidently market them but more importantly, we wanted to create impact in the communities we visited. When tourism empowers locals, it becomes sustainable, “Yvonne Donkor said.
The expedition showcased some of Ghana’s most scenic landscapes and cultural heritage. From hiking the lush Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary to witnessing sacred monkeys at the Boabeng Fiema Sanctuary, the tour highlighted a unique blend of biodiversity and tradition.
TOUGHA’s visit also delivered tangible benefits for the communities it touched. In Bui, the union organized a skills training programme for more than 50 women, teaching them liquid soap and wig cap production to boost economic self-reliance.
“This initiative is about creating opportunity,” Donkor explained.
“We’re empowering women to become entrepreneurs so they can share in the tourism value chain.”
The Chief of Bui, Nana Kwadwo Wuo II, commended TOUGHA for its efforts, calling for strategic investments in hospitality infrastructure to support growing interest in the area.
The expedition concluded in Sunyani with a customer care training session for tour operators, reinforcing TOUGHA’s mission to improve service delivery and visitor satisfaction.
“Ghana’s competitiveness as a destination depends on the quality of experience we offer visitors; we must match our beautiful attractions with world-class service.”
By exploring and promoting lesser-known destinations like Bomfobiri, Boabeng Fiema and Duasidan, TOUGHA aims to decentralize tourism income, create jobs and establish the Bono Region as a must-visit eco-destination.
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